11 July 2017
As is all too clear in recent times, we can’t stop the unexpected. However, our experienced team at WST always work hard to put practical solutions in place quickly for our customers, to provide reassurance, support and choices. After all the reason teachers choose a Tour Operator is so that you can benefit from that professional support.
Understandably, teachers, parents and students have been worried by recent terror events and have questioned whether to go ahead with their trip. The overall messages we are getting is one of positivity, but with caution. Teachers, parents and students do still want to go on their trips that they have been planning and looking forward to. Many trips are regular fixtures in the school diary and to miss that trip this year is disappointing and stressful. But the big priority is keeping students safe.
It’s true, that if you choose to cancel your trip because you feel it’s unsafe to take your students away at that time, that this is not an insurable situation and your parents will not get a refund. But… our overriding message to our customers is that your students don’t need to be disappointed - you don’t have to cancel your trip. Your parents won’t be angry at losing their money.
Forrester High School has rescheduled our dance trip this year due to resent events in London. WST has been very accommodating and worked with us. They have been very flexible with dates and contacted relevant companies to rearrange dates/events. WST has communicated with us exceptionally well and provided reassurance in order for our pupils not to miss out on this exciting experience. Our pupils are now looking forward to the rescheduled date.
Forrester High School
Following the devastating terrorist incidents of the recent weeks, parents and school have been genuinely concerned about planned visits that schools have organised. We have such a visit planned for July of this year. I felt that some parents and families could be concerned about the visit so felt that it was important to contact WST to seek their advice and guidance. On contact, the WST representative couldn’t be more helpful. They listened carefully to our concerns, provided advice both as a company and from national sources and then worked closely with us to minimise any of the concerns we had. Their target was to reduce “pavement” time and avoid the possibility of coming into contact with large crowds. This we have been able to do which has significantly appeased ourselves and our families. Their approach was extremely supportive, caring and highly professional. We are very grateful for their response and support.
Anchorsholme Academy
Given the late change of our destination due to the terror threat in Brussels, Kerrie handled our tour exceptionally well and with great patience that was very much appreciated during a stressful time. Thank you so much!
Notre Dame High School
If you want to know more about how we will work with you to do the right thing for your group on your school trips get in touch with us today or visit our Safety & Support page.